Liverpool's dream of recruiting Alexander Isak was “upgraded” when coach Eddie Howe admitted Newcastle “no longer controlled”.
Sharing with Sky Sports, coach Howe said: “He is still our player. The contract is still valid and, to some extent, we can control his future. I hope all the possibilities are still open. I want Isak to stay, but that is no longer completely in my control.”
When asked about whether Liverpool had submitted an official offer yet, Howe replied: “We have not received any official offer for Isak from any club. My wish is that he continues to stick and play for the next season team.”
Isak currently does not participate in Newcastle's Asian tour, on the grounds that the thigh injury. However, the Swedish striker unexpectedly did not appear in the video of promoting Newcastle's new away shirt – what raised many doubts.
Currently, Isak's contract is still 3 years, meaning that if Newcastle is forced to sell, they will not let him leave at a cheap price. The sources revealed that Liverpool is planning to sell 4 big stars to have funds to pursue Isak, and are ready to meet a record fee in the Premier League if necessary.
The Anfield home team is about to send the opening offer of about £ 120 million. However, Newcastle is expected to refuse and respond to a request price of up to £ 150 million.
If the deal takes place, Isak can become the most expensive contract in British football history, exceeding the record that Chelsea used to spend Enzo Fernandez or Moises Caicedo.